EPA Declares War on Illegal Mining: Immediate Shutdown Ordered
Nationwide Directive Aims to Protect Water Bodies, Public Health, and Natural Resources
- All illegal mining activities must halt, per EPA’s directive
- EPA partners with government agencies and security forces to ensure compliance
- Focus on safeguarding water bodies and reducing environmental harm caused by illegal mining
Expressing deep concern over the escalating destruction of water bodies caused by illegal mining operations, the EPA warned that such activities pose severe threats to the environment, public health, and Ghana’s natural resources.
In a statement released on January 28, the EPA emphasized that all mining activities must align with Ghana’s environmental regulations, requiring proper permits and the adoption of sustainable practices to minimize environmental harm.
Citing Sections 2 and 3b(ii) of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), the EPA declared:
“This urgent directive applies to all illegal mining (galamsey) operations and unauthorized activities in water bodies. Effective immediately, all such activities must cease.”
To enforce this order, the EPA is collaborating with the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST), the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and security agencies. Key enforcement measures include:
- Seizure of Equipment: Confiscating machinery used in illegal mining.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Increasing monitoring and inspections at mining sites to ensure compliance.
Reaffirming its dedication to protecting the nation’s water resources, the EPA called on the public to report any illegal mining activities.
This decisive action reflects the EPA’s unwavering resolve to safeguard Ghana’s environment and natural heritage.
